【IELTS-Speaking】IELTS Speaking Practice Tests

【口說 Speaking 】 結構: 3部分，11-14分鐘。 Part 1：個人問題（4-5分鐘）。 Part 2：獨白（3-4分鐘，含1分鐘準備）。 Part 3：深入討論（4-5分鐘）。 高分技巧: 流利優先，適度停頓無妨。 擴展答案，加入例子/理由。 使用多樣詞彙與句型，避免重複。 保持自信，眼神接觸。 練習常見話題（教育、工作、環境）。
Structure: 3 parts, 11-14 minutes. Part 1: Personal questions (4-5 minutes). Part 2: Monologue (2 minutes, including 1-minute prep). Part 3: In-depth discussion (4-5 minutes).
High-Score Tips: Prioritize fluency; occasional pauses are fine. Expand answers with examples/reasons. Use diverse vocabulary and sentence types, and avoid repetition. Stay confident, maintain eye contact. Practice common topics (education, work, environment).

Practice Simulation Tests Part 1 4-5 minutes Introduction and questions on familiar topic areas such as work, study, hobbies, holidays Part 2 3-4 minutes 2 minute talk on a familiar topic Part 3 4-5 minutes Two-way discussion on issues related to the topic in part 2 Pre-test introduction Examiner: opening statement: ... Good morning/ afternoon, would you please tell me your full name? Student: Yes, my full name is (Chinese full name); however, please call me by my English name (English name). Examiner: Thank you. Can I see your identification, please? Student: Yes/ Sure, here is my ID/ identification. Examiner: Thanks. We can now get started with the first part of the exam. In the first part, I will ask you some personal questions. First, I'd like to ask about...
Test 1: Environment Part 1 Part 1 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: Now, in this first part of the test, I'm going to ask you some questions about yourself. First, I'd like to ask about your hometown. What kind of place is your hometown? Tell me about the most interesting place in your hometown. What changes would you like to make to your hometown?
Examiner: Now let's move on to talk about animals. What kinds of animals are popular pets in your country? Why? How are animals in your country used for work? Are there any animals in your country that have special significance? Examiner: Let’s talk about travel. How easy is it to travel in your country? What form of transport is the most popular? Why? Are there any parts of your country that are difficult to travel to? Why / Why not? Part 2 Part 2 Time: 3-4 minutes Examiner: Now, I'm going to give you a topic, and I'd like you to talk about it for 1-2 minutes. Before you talk, you'll have one minute to think about what you are going to say, and you can make notes if you wish. Do you understand? Student: Yes, I understand. Examiner: Ok, here's some paper and a pencil to make notes, and here is your topic. I'd like you to describe an environmental problem that has occurred in your country. Cue Card Example 1 One serious environmental problem in Taiwan is air pollution, which has been a concern for many years. The main causes of this problem are vehicle emissions and heavy industry. Taiwan has a very high number of scooters and cars, especially in cities, and many factories also release pollutants into the air. Another important factor is the Central Mountain Range, which runs through the island. While it’s a beautiful natural feature, it actually traps polluted air in the western plains where most people live, preventing it from dispersing easily. This has had a significant impact on the country, particularly on people’s health. Air pollution can lead to respiratory problems such as asthma and other lung conditions. When I was a child, I remember that we had to check the radio or TV to find out the daily air quality level. If it was too high, we were told to wear masks before going outside. It was quite worrying, especially for children and elderly people. In recent years, the government has taken several steps to address this issue. For example, they have been encouraging the use of electric cars and scooters, and investing in more cycle lanes to reduce reliance on fossil fuel vehicles. They have also introduced stricter regulations for factories, requiring cleaner production methods and better filtering technology to reduce emissions. Advances in green technology are also helping industries become more environmentally friendly. I think this problem is extremely important to solve because it directly affects public health and quality of life. If people are constantly exposed to polluted air, it can lead to long-term health issues and increased healthcare costs. Moreover, it’s important for future generations—we don’t want children growing up in an environment where clean air is not guaranteed. Solving this problem would not only improve the health of the nation but also make Taiwan a more sustainable and livable place in the long run. Example 2 I'm going to talk about a problem with the environment in my country. One of the most serious problems at the moment is flooding. This is starting to happen every year, and each year it seems to get worse. I think it may be caused by a number of factors. Firstly, there has been a lot of deforestation in the north of the country, a lot of it from illegal logging. Because of this, when it rains, the water has nothing to soak up, so it just runs down the mountains and into the villages and towns. Another factor may be global warming. Scientists believe that this is causing more severe weather, so this may account for the increasing amount of rain that we seem to be seeing. It also means the soil is drier, so again the rainwater runs off it rather than being soaked up. Unfortunately, there have been really serious effects on my country. As I said, the excess water runs into the villages and the towns through the rivers and the rivers then overflow, causing massive flooding. This affects thousands of people who then become homeless. Several hundred usually die each year as well. It travels through the country as it starts in the north and goes down to the sea, so it can affect many towns and the capital city too. This also has repercussions for the government as they have to spend so much money managing the disaster each year. The government is trying to tackle the problem, but it is not easy. They are trying to stop so much deforestation, but a lot of the damage has already been done, so what can they do? They are also starting to build defences, such as walls, along some of the major rivers that run through the town to try to stop them overflowing. Another thing they are doing is trying to improve their response systems. In most towns, there is now a government organisation responsible for coordinating relief operations and making sure they are prepared in advance. I think this problem is a top priority to solve because it has such devastating impacts. As I mentioned before, it causes suffering for so many people, and it is also a huge expense for the government, and as we are not a rich country, we cannot afford this. It means that other services suffer because of a lack of money. There are other problems that my country has, but I think that is by far the worst. So, that is the serious problem in my country, and I only hope that it does not continue to get worse. Example Answer Follow-up questions: Are other people concerned about this problem? Do you talk about it with your friends? Part 3 Part 3 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: We've been talking about an environmental problem in your country, and I'd now like to ask you some questions related to this. First, let's consider global environmental problems. Example with answers: Environmental Problems
Tell me about some of the environmental problems that are affecting countries these days. Example Well, there are a lot at the moment. Although it has not been proven for sure, there is a great deal of consensus about the fact that global warming is leading to severe weather change and this is resulting in many problems. We are seeing a lot of countries with the same problems that they have always had, but on a much larger scale. For example, in the United States, there seem to be far more hurricanes and tornadoes than in the past, with more devastating effects. There seems to be constant news of serious flooding in many countries from Asia to Europe. Forest fires also seem to be getting worse, particularly each year in Australia. Do you think that governments around the world are doing enough to tackle the problems? Example No, usually I don't think they are doing enough. There are countries that do what they can to help their people when problems occur, and they are trying to come up with measures to mitigate the effects, but when it comes to the major issue of global warming, countries are not doing enough. We see time and again that no agreement can be made on how to reduce carbon footprints. This is usually because governments know that to make a serious reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, they will have to sacrifice economic growth, and they are not prepared to do this. Governments think very short-term. They know that if there is an economic decline, then they will be voted out. Why do some people not consider environmental problems to be serious? Example I think there are several reasons for that. In some cases, it is simply because people are not affected on a day-to-day basis, so it does not concern them. They just see it on the news, affecting other people. It does not mean they do not care, but they will soon forget about it. Also, some big organisations can be responsible for putting the wrong information out. For example, oil companies have a vested interest in making sure people do not believe in global warming, as it could affect their profits, so they downplay the issue. Also, some people think that, as it is a long-term problem, they will have passed away by the time it affects them, so they think it is not important for them! Examiner: Now we'll look at environmental problems and disasters caused by humans. What do you consider to be the world’s worst environmental disaster caused by humans? Example I think that may be the nuclear disaster in Chornobyl, Ukraine. In that case, there was an explosion and nuclear meltdown. It caused great loss of life. The environment was badly affected, and it is still affected today and could be for many years. There are also many people who are still getting sick from the disaster, and no one can live anywhere near the site. Of course, there are many other serious ones, some more recent, such as the oil spills in Africa and the US. Why do you think environmental disasters caused by humans happen? Example It could be for different reasons. In some cases, it is simply because not enough care is taken. Maybe procedures are not good enough. It could also be because the drive for profit means that there is cost-cutting, and that again could mean that good procedures are not in place. There is usually a situation when a disaster happens where blame will be deflected, and it is difficult to establish exactly who is responsible. Nobody wants to admit responsibility because it means they will have to pay compensation. Sometimes a disaster can happen because of a simple mistake by someone. Do you think there will be more environmental disasters caused by humans in the future? Example I don't think there will necessarily be more. Procedures are always getting tighter, so in theory, there should be fewer, but mistakes will always happen, so I'm sure they will continue, unfortunately. Governments must continue to prosecute any companies that cause environmental problems or disasters so that they are less likely to happen again. Test 2: Possessions Part 1 Part 1 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: Now, in this first part of the test I'm going to ask you some questions about yourself. Lets talk about your hometown. What kind of place is your hometown? What do young people do for entertainment in your hometown? What is the worst thing about living in your hometown? (Why?) Examiner: Okay, I’d like to move on and ask you some questions about tourism in your country. What should a visitor see and do in your country? Are there any traditional art or music that you would recommend? (Why?) Tell me about the kind of visitors who come to your country. Examiner: Let’s move on and talk about being on time for appointments. Is being late acceptable in your culture? (Why/why not?) Are you ever late for appointments? (Why/why not?) What type of excuses do you think are alright for lateness? How do you feel when someone is late for an appointment with you? Part 2 Part 2 Time: 3-4 minutes Examiner: Now, I'm going to give you a topic, and I'd like you to talk about it for 1-2 minutes. Before you talk, you'll have one minute to think about what you are going to say, and you can make notes if you wish. Do you understand? Student: Yes, I understand. Examiner: Ok, here's some paper and a pencil to make notes, and here is your topic. I'd like you to describe an environmental problem that has occurred in your country. Cue Card Follow-up questions: Is it valuable in terms of money? Would it be easy to replace? Example Answer Here's a strong, natural Band 8–9 sample answer for IELTS Speaking Part 2 on this cue card. You can use it as a model. Speak it fluently for 1.5–2 minutes.
Sample Answer (Band 8.5–9) One thing I own that is really important to me is my laptop. It’s a silver MacBook Air that I’ve had for about four years now. I got it as a graduation gift from my parents when I finished university. They knew how much I needed a reliable computer for my studies and future work, so they saved up and surprised me with it on my graduation day. I still remember how happy and emotional I felt when I opened the box.
I use it for almost everything in my daily life. I use it to work — I’m a graphic designer, so I spend many hours editing photos and creating designs on it. I also use it for studying online courses, watching educational videos, communicating with clients via email and video calls, and even for entertainment like listening to music or watching films in my free time. Basically, it’s my main tool for both professional and personal activities.
This laptop is so important to me for several reasons. First of all, it holds a lot of sentimental value because it was a gift from my parents, and every time I use it, I feel their love and support. Secondly, it has become an essential part of my career. All my important projects, client files, and creative work are stored on it, so I feel quite lost without it. Moreover, it’s incredibly reliable and lightweight, which makes it perfect for someone like me who travels quite often for work. I’ve taken good care of it, and it still works perfectly even after four years.
In short, this laptop is much more than just a device to me — it represents my achievements, my family’s support, and the tool that helps me build my future. I don’t think I could manage my life as smoothly without it.
(≈ 1 minute 50 seconds when spoken at natural speed)
Why this answer scores high: Clear structure — Covers all four points on the cue card naturally. Fluency & Coherence — Good linking words (first of all, secondly, moreover, in short). Range of vocabulary — Words like sentimental value, reliable, essential, achievements, build my future. Grammar — Mix of complex sentences and natural spoken English. Personal & detailed — Examiner likes specific reasons and feelings.
Alternative Ideas (Choose one you can speak about easily): Your smartphone (daily life tool + memories) A family heirloom (e.g., watch, necklace, ring from grandparents) Your first bicycle or motorcycle A musical instrument (guitar/piano) A photo album or hard drive with family photos Follow-up questions: Are other people concerned about this problem? Do you talk about it with your friends? Part 3 Part 3 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: We've been talking about something you own which is very important to you, and I'd now like to ask you some questions related to this. First, let's consider values and the way they change. What kinds of possessions give status to people in your country? Has it always been the same, or were different possessions thought of as valuable in the past? Why do you think people need to show their status in society?
Examiner: Now we'll discuss the role of advertising. Do you think advertising influences what people buy? Do advertisements give correct information, or do they encourage people to buy things that they may not need? Is advertising really necessary in modern society? *** Examiner: Thank you. That is the end of the speaking test for IELTS. Test 3: An Important Event Part 1 Part 1 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: Now, in this first part of the test, I'm going to ask you some questions about yourself. Are you a student or do you work now? Why did you choose this course/job? Talk about your daily routine. Is there anything about your course/job you would like to change? Examiner: I’d like to move on and ask you some questions about shopping.
Who does most of the shopping in your household? What type of shopping do you like? (Why?) Is shopping a popular activity in your country? (Why/why not?) What type of shops do teenagers like best in your country?
Examiner: Now let’s talk about films. How often do you go to the cinema? What type of films do you like best? (Why?) What type of films don’t you like? (Why not?) Which actor would you like to play you in a film? Part 2 Part 2 Time: 3-4 minutes Examiner: Now, I'm going to give you a topic, and I'd like you to talk about it for 1-2 minutes. Before you talk, you'll have one minute to think about what you are going to say, and you can make notes if you wish. Do you understand? Student: Yes, I understand. Examiner: Ok, here's some paper and a pencil to make notes, and here is your topic. I'd like you to describe an environmental problem that has occurred in your country. Cue Card Example Answer Here's a natural, fluent, and high-band IELTS Speaking Part 2 sample answer (Band 8–9 level) for the topic: Describe an important event in your life. Sample Answer: One of the most important events in my life happened about four years ago, in the summer of 2022. It was the day I received the acceptance letter from my dream university. At that time, I was with my family at home. I clearly remember I was extremely nervous that morning because I had been waiting for the university admission results for weeks. My parents were sitting with me in the living room, trying to calm me down. When I finally opened my email and saw the offer letter, I just froze for a second. Then I screamed with joy and started jumping around the room like a little child. My parents were also over the moon — my mom had tears in her eyes, and my dad gave me a big hug. We celebrated by going out for a special family dinner that evening. What happened that day completely changed the direction of my life. I had worked incredibly hard for almost two years preparing for the entrance exam and improving my English. Getting accepted meant I could finally study abroad, experience a new culture, and pursue the career I had always dreamed of. This event was so important to me because it was the first major achievement that proved all my efforts had paid off. It boosted my self-confidence enormously and taught me that persistence and hard work really do bring results. Moreover, it gave me the opportunity to grow as a person, become more independent, and open my mind to the world. Even now, whenever I face difficulties, I think back to that moment and remind myself that I am capable of achieving big things if I stay determined.
Follow-up tips for Part 3: You can expand naturally if the examiner asks more questions. Examples:
“How did this event change you?”
“Do you think important events always have to be positive?” Follow-up questions: Do you still think about this event often? Can the other people involved remember this event? Part 3 Part 3 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: We've been talking about an important event in your life, and I'd now like to ask you some questions related to this. What days are important in your country? Why is it important to have national celebrations? How is the way your national celebrations are celebrated now different from the way they were celebrated in the past? Do you think any new national celebrations will come into being in the future? Are there any celebrations from other countries that you celebrate in your country? What are the benefits of having events that many people around the world celebrate on the same day? *** Examiner: Thank you. That is the end of the speaking test for IELTS. Test 4: Education Part 1 Part 1 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: Now, in this first part of the test I'm going to ask you some questions about yourself. Lets talk about shopping. Do you enjoy shopping? How often do you go shopping and what do you buy? So you prefer to go shopping alone or with other people? (Why?) Examiner: I’d like to move on and ask you some questions about food. What is you favourite food? (Why?) What kind of restaurants do you like to eat out at? What would your perfect meal be?
Examiner: I'd like to talk now about your hobbies. Tell me about any hobbies you have. Are there any hobbies you would like to have in the future? Do you think hobbies should be relaxing or should they be exciting? (Why?) Part 2 Part 2 Time: 3-4 minutes Examiner: Now, I'm going to give you a topic, and I'd like you to talk about it for 1-2 minutes. Before you talk, you'll have one minute to think about what you are going to say, and you can make notes if you wish. Do you understand? Student: Yes, I understand. Examiner: Ok, here's some paper and a pencil to make notes, and here is your topic. I'd like you to describe something you own which is very important to you. Cue Card Example Answer Describe a course you have done that you found useful You should say: What you learnt What you enjoyed about the course What you didn't enjoy And explain why it was useful to you. Here’s a natural, fluent, and high-band IELTS Part 2 response you can use or adapt for your Speaking test: Cue Card Answer: One course that I found really useful was an online Digital Marketing course I completed last year on Coursera. It was offered by the University of Illinois and lasted about six weeks. In terms of what I learnt, the course covered a wide range of topics, including SEO (Search Engine Optimization), social media marketing, content marketing, email marketing, and data analytics. I also learnt how to create effective advertising campaigns on platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads, and how to analyse customer behaviour using tools like Google Analytics. Before the course, I had almost zero knowledge about these areas, but now I feel much more confident. What I enjoyed most about the course was how practical it was. Every week we had real-world case studies and hands-on assignments where we actually created marketing plans or analysed real company data. I also really liked the video lectures because the professors explained complex concepts in a simple and engaging way. The discussion forums were another highlight — it was interesting to hear ideas from people all over the world who were taking the same course. However, there were a few things I didn’t enjoy. The course was quite intensive, and because I was working full-time at the same time, I sometimes felt stressed trying to meet the weekly deadlines. Also, some of the technical parts, especially the data analytics sections, were quite challenging for me as I don’t have a strong background in statistics, so I had to spend extra time watching supplementary videos. Overall, this course was extremely useful to me. After finishing it, I was able to apply many of the skills directly to my job. I now help my company run better social media campaigns and I’ve even started managing some of our Google Ads, which has improved our online visibility and sales. On a personal level, it has opened up new career opportunities for me. I’m now much more interested in marketing as a field and I feel more competitive in the job market. I genuinely believe this course was one of the best investments I’ve made in my professional development. Why this answer works well for IELTS: Length: Around 1:45–2:00 when spoken naturally (perfect for Part 2). Structure: Clearly follows all four bullet points. Vocabulary: Good range of topic-specific vocabulary (SEO, content marketing, Google Analytics, case studies, etc.). Grammar: Mix of complex structures (relative clauses, conditionals, past perfect). Fluency & Coherence: Natural linking words and good flow. Personal touch: Sounds genuine and detailed. Follow-up questions: Are you in touch with anyone from the course now? Would you like to go on a course like this again? Part 3 Part 3 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: We've been talking about a course you have done that you found useful, and I'd now like to ask you some questions related to this.
First, let's consider homework.. Do you think it is important that children are given homework? How much homework should they be given? Do you think parents should help their children with their homework or should it be done alone?
Examiner: Now we'll discuss the relationship between education and work. How important is it to have a university education to get a job in your country? Does having a degree from another country enhance employment opportunities in your country? What impacts do students who have studies abroad have on their country of origin when they come home? *** Examiner: Thank you. That is the end of the speaking test for IELTS. Test 5: Teaching and Education Part 1 Part 1 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: Now, in this first part of the test, I'm going to ask you some questions about yourself. First I'd like to ask some questions about your family. Do you have a large or small family? How much time do you spend with members of your family? What sort of things do you like to do together?
Examiner: Now let's move on to talk about food. What kind of food do you like? What are some of the typical foods in your country? In your country, do men or women have the main responsibility for cooking?
Examiner: Let’s talk about where you live. Tell me about the house or apartment you live in. What are some of the bad things about living there? What kind of place would you like to have in the future? Part 2 Part 2 Time: 3-4 minutes Examiner: Now, I'm going to give you a topic, and I'd like you to talk about it for 1-2 minutes. Before you talk, you'll have one minute to think about what you are going to say, and you can make notes if you wish. Do you understand? Student: Yes, I understand. Examiner: Ok, here's some paper and a pencil to make notes, and here is your topic. I'd like you to describe an environmental problem that has occurred in your country. Cue Card Example Answer I’d like to talk about a teacher who had a strong influence on my education. I met her during my final years of secondary school. Her name was Mrs. Taylor, and she taught us English literature.
What made her stand out was her passion for the subject and the way she connected with students. Instead of just focusing on textbooks, she encouraged us to think deeply about themes, characters, and real-life meanings behind the stories we studied. Her classes were always interactive—she would ask open-ended questions and genuinely listen to our opinions, which made us feel valued and confident.
Another special thing about her was her patience. She understood that every student had different abilities, so she always took extra time to explain difficult concepts. She also gave very thoughtful feedback on our essays, pointing out not only our mistakes but also how we could improve step by step.
She influenced me so much because she completely changed my attitude toward learning. Before her classes, I saw English as just another subject I had to pass. But she inspired me to enjoy reading and expressing my ideas more clearly. This not only helped me academically but also improved my confidence in communication.
Overall, she didn’t just teach me literature—she taught me how to think critically and express myself, which are skills I still use today. Follow-up questions: Do other people you know remember this teacher? Do you still see this teacher? Part 3 Part 3 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: We've been talking about a teacher who has influenced you in your education, and I'd now like to ask you some questions related to this.
First, we'll look at developments in education. Has education in your country changed in the last 10 years? What changes do you think will happen in the future? What changes would you recommend to improve the education system?
Examiner: Now let's look at the national education system. How do the ambitions of current school leavers compare with those of the previous generation? What role do you think extracurricular activities play in education? What is the role of the school in modern society? *** Examiner: Thank you. That is the end of the speaking test for IELTS. Test 6: Clothes Part 1 Part 1 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: Now, in this first part of the test, I'm going to ask you some questions about yourself. I’d just like to ask you some questions about your occupation. What do you do? Why did you choose that particular (job/ line of study)? What do you do every day? What other (work/study) would you consider doing? I’d like to move on and ask you some questions about relaxing. What type of activities help you relax? Do you like to do these activities alone or with other people? Why do you think it is important for people to relax? Do you think people have enough time for relaxing? Let’s change the topic and talk about your family. Do you have a big or a small family? Do you live together or nearby? What activities do you like to do together? Who is your favourite family member? Part 2 Part 2 Time: 3-4 minutes Examiner: Now, I'm going to give you a topic, and I'd like you to talk about it for 1-2 minutes. Before you talk, you'll have one minute to think about what you are going to say, and you can make notes if you wish. Do you understand? Student: Yes, I understand. Examiner: Ok, here's some paper and a pencil to make notes, and here is your topic. I'd like you to describe an environmental problem that has occurred in your country. Cue Card Example Answer Describe the type of clothes you prefer to wear. You should say:
What the clothes look like
When you prefer to wear them
Where you like to buy them
Explain why you like wearing these clothes.

The type of clothes I prefer to wear are casual and comfortable outfits, mainly consisting of jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers. I tend to choose simple designs and neutral colors like black, white, and gray, because they are easy to mix and match. Occasionally, I also like wearing hoodies or light jackets, especially during colder months. I usually prefer to wear these clothes on a daily basis, whether I am going to work, meeting friends, or running errands. I feel that casual wear suits almost every informal situation, and it allows me to move freely without feeling restricted.
When it comes to buying these clothes, I often go to local shopping malls or popular clothing stores like Zara, Uniqlo, or H&M. I sometimes shop online as well, especially if I am looking for something specific or if there’s a good discount available.
The main reason I like wearing these clothes is comfort. I spend a lot of my day on my feet or traveling, so it’s important for me to feel relaxed. Additionally, I find that simple, casual clothes reflect my personality and make me feel confident without attracting too much attention. I also enjoy the practicality of this style because I don’t have to spend much time thinking about what to wear each day. Follow-up questions: Do your friends like to wear this type of clothes? Do you wear other styles of clothes as well? Part 3 Part 3 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: We've been talking about a teacher who has influenced you in your education, and I'd now like to ask you some questions related to this.First, we'll look at developments in education. Is buying clothes a popular activity for teenagers in your country? How much money should parents spend on their children's clothes? What types of fashion do teenagers like to wear in your country? What influence has the fashion industry had in your country? Are the fashions of today different from those when your parents were young? What do you think will be the effects of the fashion industry in the next ten years? *** Examiner: Thank you. That is the end of the speaking test for IELTS. Test 7: Environment 2 Part 1 Part 1 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: Now, in this first part of the test, I'm going to ask you some questions about yourself. I’d just like to ask you some questions about your home. Where is your home? Do you live in a house or a flat? Who do you live with? Are there many rooms in your home? What is your favourite room? What would you change about your home? Do you plan to live there in the future? What is your neighbourhood like? What type of building do most people live in in your country? I’d like to move on and ask you some questions about pollution. 1) Do you think pollution is a big problem nowadays? I think it’s a massive issue. It really worries me how much damage we are doing to the natural environment, especially how we pollute the oceans with plastic waste and release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. 2) What do you do to prevent the environment from pollution? I recycle as much rubbish as I can, and I walk when possible rather than driving or taking public transport in order to reduce my carbon footprint. 3) Are you worried about climate change? Most definitely. In my country, the weather is changing because of global warming, and we get more bad storms than before. Governments and individuals need to do more to combat climate change. 4) Do you use renewable energy? Not at the moment. I wanted to change my house to solar power, but the panels are too expensive for me to buy, so, unfortunately, I still use fossil fuels. 5) Do you take an interest in nature? I love all wildlife. My garden is the perfect habitat for hedgehogs. They are nocturnal, but if I go out after dark with a torch, I sometimes see one. Part 2 Part 2 Time: 3-4 minutes Examiner: Now, I'm going to give you a topic, and I'd like you to talk about it for 1-2 minutes. Before you talk, you'll have one minute to think about what you are going to say, and you can make notes if you wish. Do you understand? Student: Yes, I understand. Examiner: Ok, here's some paper and a pencil to make notes, and here is your topic. I'd like you to describe an environmental problem that has occurred in your country. Cue Card Describe an environmental problem you’ve heard about. You should say: what it is how long it has existed how it affects people’s lives and explain how you think the problem will develop in the future. Example Answer There are a number of serious environmental problems being covered by the media at the moment but the one I’d like to talk about is the deforestation of vast areas of rainforest to grow palm oil. I’m not sure when it started to become a concern to environmentalist but I know that they’re increasingly worried about it. This land clearance is on a huge scale and the forest is often just burned down. This sends large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere which contribute to global warming and climate change. This affects everyone on the planet. Just as important is the effect on the native wildlife. Deforestation to grow palm oil in Borneo and Sumatra destroys the natural habitat of orang utans as well as many other animals. Conservationists estimate that unless the situation changes, the orang utan and Sumatran tiger could become extinct in the wild in the next 5-10 years. In fact, a third of all mammal species in Indonesia are thought to be critically endangered because of this type of unsustainable development. Furthermore, the oil palm plantations that replace the rich vegetation of the rainforest support very low levels of biodiversity and create a totally a different ecosystem. I don’t fully understand why the loss of biodiversity is such a problem but I did read somewhere that it means that our food crops are more vulnerable to pest and diseases. This could lead to serious food shortages in the future. I think that the palm oil industry and its associated problems are going to be difficult to change. Perhaps it’s consumers who can have the biggest impact by refusing to buy products containing palm oil which is in around 40-50% of common household products in many developed countries. In the UK, there’s already one major food retailer that has promised to ban palm oil in its own products. This I really encouraging and I hope other companies will do the same soon. Follow-up questions: Is there enough awareness of this problem in society? Whart would you like to see change? Part 3 Part 3 Time: 4-5 minutes Examiner: We've been talking about an environmental problem, and I'd now like to ask you some questions related to this. 1) What do you consider to be the most serious environmental issues in the world today? I’d say that global warming and climate change have to come top of the list because these threaten the very future of life on our planet. There are many contributing factors such as the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation for agriculture and due to illegal logging, and large-scale livestock farming. Another serious concern is for the marine life in our oceans which is under serious threat from pollution, especially waste plastics. These kill or injure thousands of sea creatures every day. Many species of wildlife are also being pushed to the verge of extinction by poaching. It’s shocking to think that beautiful animals such as the tiger are dying out in the wild because of the actions of human beings. There are many other environmental problems that we need to solve but these are the ones I believe to be the most serious. 2) Do you think it is the responsibility of governments alone to protect the environment? Not at all. It’s the responsibility of every individual to do their bit to protect the environment. Of course, governments can do a lot to address environmental issues through their policies and the laws they pass. I certainly think that governments should put more pressure on industry to use clean energy and to cut down on the emission of greenhouse gases that pollute the atmosphere and add to global warming. In my country, the government encourages people to live an environmentally-friendly lifestyle by providing recycling services and facilities and subsidising renewable energy by giving grants to people wanting to run their homes on solar power. If more people took advantage of this, it would certainly help the environment. 3) What measures can individuals take to protect the environment? There are many ways that each of us can help to care for the natural environment. Firstly, we can recycle as much of our rubbish as possible or, even better, cut down on our use of disposable products. Secondly, we can become more energy-efficient by insulating our homes, turning off lights when they don’t need to be on and making short journeys by bicycle or on foot rather than going by vehicle. Cutting down on car journeys also means fewer polluting exhaust fumes entering the atmosphere. Finally, we can make sure that we know about the major conservation issues our world is currently facing. If we are well-informed then we can take action to bring about change. These are all measure we can take as individuals to help safeguard the environment. *** Examiner: Thank you. That is the end of the speaking test for IELTS. ------------------------ 30 Practice Tests 30 IELTS Speaking Practice Cards Listen to a Speaking Sample (Assessment band 4.0) An Important Event Simulation Test - Possessions Education Teaching and Education Simulations Test - Speaking The Environment British Council IELTS Practice Full Simulation Test: Overall Speaking Listening Reading Writing Top Recommendations for Full Mock Tests Free full IELTS mock tests (full-length or close simulations covering Listening, Reading, Writing, and sometimes Speaking) available in 2026. These are realistic, timed, and updated for current exam formats (Academic & General Training). Top Recommendations for Full Mock Tests BestMyTest – Full 2.5-hour IELTS Exam Simulation (Highly recommended) Complete timed test with auto-scoring and study plan based on results. Academic: https://www.bestmytest.com/ielts/test General Training also available on the same page. IELTS Online Tests – Large library of full mocks Many free full practice tests based on real recent exams (2025–2026). → https://ieltsonlinetests.com/ (Click “View all” or go to /ielts-exam-library)
Magoosh Free IELTS Practice Test One full-length mock with predicted band score and strength/weakness report. → https://ielts.magoosh.com/practice_tests/free
Langogh – Free Timed Full Mock Complete Academic mock (Listening + Reading + Writing) with model answers. → https://langogh.com/english/ielts/practice
Mini-IELTS – Completely free, no registration Excellent for repeated full Reading and Listening mocks (combine sections for full practice). → https://mini-ielts.com/ Official Sources (Authentic but Mostly Sectional) British Council Free Practice Tests Multiple full-section practice tests (Listening, Reading, Writing). Sign up for IELTS Ready to access 6 scored practice tests + mini-mock. → https://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/take-ielts/prepare/free-ielts-english-practice-tests
IELTS.org Official Sample Questions & Trial Test Authentic samples for Academic and General Training. → https://ielts.org/take-a-test/preparation-resources/sample-test-questions Trial Test info: https://ielts.org/take-a-test/preparation-resources/ielts-trial-test IDP IELTS Free Practice Sample questions and computer-based familiarization (untimed). → https://ielts.idp.com/prepare/article-free-practice-tests Other Good Free Full Mock Options Gradding → https://www.gradding.com/test-preparation/ielts/mock-test (1000+ mocks, instant scores) IELTSMate → https://ieltsmate.net/ (Free full mock tests) Tips for Best Results Take the test under real exam conditions (quiet room, strict timing). Most platforms auto-grade Listening & Reading and give approximate band scores. For Writing & Speaking, compare with model answers or use free AI feedback tools on the sites. Academic vs General Training: Choose the correct version — Reading & Writing differ. Step-by-step of what to do to apply, and take an Academic IELTS in the UK Step 1: Confirm You Need IELTS Academic IELTS Academic is designed for people applying to higher education (university undergraduate or postgraduate courses), professional registration, or training in an English-speaking environment. It tests whether your English is suitable for academic study (e.g., understanding lectures, writing essays, reading academic texts). Important distinction: If you are applying for a UK Student visa (or any UK visa/immigration purpose), you usually need IELTS for UKVI Academic (a secure version taken at approved centres). The content and difficulty are identical, but the test centre has extra security, and your certificate has a UKVI number. Many UK universities (especially Student Route sponsors) accept regular IELTS Academic, but some require UKVI. Always check directly with your university admissions team and the UK Home Office before booking. Step 2: Decide on Test Format From mid-2026, paper-based IELTS is being phased out in the UK (and many other countries). Most (or all) tests will be computer-delivered. Computer-based advantages: More test dates, faster results (usually 3–5 days), and you type your answers. In some locations, a “Writing on Paper” option may be available (you handwrite the Writing section while doing Listening/Reading on computer). Speaking is always face-to-face with an examiner (11–14 minutes) and can be on the same day or a separate day. Total test time: ~2 hours 45 minutes + Speaking. Step 3: Choose Your Provider and Find a Test Centre Main providers in the UK: British Council (widest network – around 65 locations across the UK). IDP (available in some cities). Use the official test centre locator on the British Council or IELTS.org website to find dates near you (e.g., London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, etc.). Step 4: Book Your Test Online Go to the official British Council UK page: https://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/uk or directly to the booking portal: https://ieltsregistration.britishcouncil.org/ (select United Kingdom). Choose: Test type: IELTS Academic Format: Computer-based (preferred/recommended now) Whether you need the UKVI version Select your preferred test centre, date, and (if available) Speaking slot. Create an account or log in. Fill in your personal details carefully (name must match your passport exactly). Upload a clear scan or photo of your valid passport (this is the primary ID required). Review all information and accept the terms. Pay the fee online (debit/credit card). Current fees in the UK (approximate – confirm on the booking site as they vary slightly by location and type): Regular IELTS Academic: £215 – £250 IELTS for UKVI Academic: Slightly higher (often £240–£260+) Book early — popular dates and cities fill up weeks or months in advance, especially before university application deadlines. If you are under 18, a parent/guardian will need to provide consent. Step 5: Prepare for the Test Use free official materials from takeielts.britishcouncil.org or ielts.org (sample tests, practice questions, videos). Focus on all four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing (Task 1 & 2), Speaking. Familiarise yourself with the computer test interface if you’re taking the computer version. Consider a preparation course if you need structured support. Step 6: On Test Day – What to Expect and Do Arrival: Arrive at least 30 minutes early (follow the exact instructions in your confirmation email). Late arrivals are usually not allowed in. What to bring: Your original valid passport (exactly the same one you used when booking — no photocopies or other IDs accepted). Confirmation email (printed or on your phone). Nothing else: Phones, bags, notes, smartwatches, etc., must be left in a secure storage area. Process: Identity check and security screening (fingerprints/photo may be taken, especially for UKVI). You will be assigned a seat. Listening, Reading, and Writing are done on computer (or with the Writing-on-paper option if available). Speaking is a recorded face-to-face interview. Stay calm, manage your time (especially in Writing), and follow all instructions. Results: Available online in 3–5 days for computer tests. You’ll receive a digital Test Report Form; a paper copy may be posted. Step 7: After the Test Check your results via the British Council portal. Send your scores directly to universities (additional copies may cost extra). If your score is not high enough, you can retake the test (no limit on attempts). There is also a One Skill Retake option to improve just one section. For visa or university applications, make sure your scores meet the required band (typically overall 6.0–7.5, with no band below 5.5–6.0, depending on the course). Extra Tips Book only through official websites (British Council or IDP) to avoid scams. Cancellations or transfers: Possible with advance notice, but fees usually apply — check the terms. Special requirements (e.g., extra time for disabilities): Request access arrangements during booking. IELTS Online (remote from home) is available in some countries but not accepted for UK visas or most UK university applications. For the absolute latest dates, fees, and availability, always start at the official British Council UK IELTS page: https://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/uk Standard order of an IELTS Test on test day Listening (first) Reading (immediately after Listening) Writing (immediately after Reading) There are no breaks between these three sections. They are taken together on the same day and last about 2 hours 40 minutes in total. Listening: ~30 minutes (plus 10 minutes to transfer answers in the paper-based test). Reading: 60 minutes. Writing: 60 minutes. Important notes: The Speaking test is separate. It can be on the same day as the above three sections, or up to 7 days before or after, depending on your test centre's schedule. This order applies to both paper-based and computer-based IELTS in most locations. Rare exception: In some specific regions (e.g., certain centres in Ontario or Quebec, Canada for paper-based tests), the order for the written sections may be changed to Writing → Reading → Listening. Always check with your test centre for any local variations. This is the official and most common format used worldwide. References Part 2 - Cue Cards IELTS Long Turn Samples Topics & Questions: Part 2 IELTS Speaking Part 3 Sample Questions: Part 3 Common Topics --------------- Listening Examples Listening & Discuss Band 3-4 Example Speaking Examples - Part 2 Long Turn Samples Speaking Part 2 Sample Answers Practice: How to give a 2-minute talk Sample Answer using a Mind Map Describe Hypothetical Situations Conditional Questions Speaking Topics Part 2 - Cue Cards Speaking Practice Topics https://ieltstutorials.online/sample-questions/cue-card https://www.ieltsbuddy.com/ielts-speaking-samples.html
50 Recent IELTS Speaking Topics for Parts 2 and 3 for IELTS 2025
https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-speaking-part-1-topics/ IELTS Speaking Sample Questions with Answers for IELTS Speaking Part 3 https://www.ieltsjacky.com/ielts-speaking.html https://ieltsmaterial.com/50-ielts-speaking-part-2-3-topics-2020-with-model-answers/ https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-speaking-free-lessons-essential-tips/ https://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/take-ielts/prepare/free-ielts-english-practice-tests/speaking https://ielts-up.com/speaking/ielts-speaking-test.html https://leapscholar.com/exams/ielts/practice-test/speaking/part-1 https://ielts.org/take-a-test/preparation-resources
IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors - Speaking Assessment Criteria What is the IELTS Speaking test? Four Skills 33 interview questions for students (with sample answers) Interviewers usually ask these questions for students to learn about their basic knowledge and abilities. They also ask these questions to get a better understanding of your interests, attitude, and personality. Some common general questions include: Can you tell us about yourself? How did you learn about our organization/ university? What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses, and how do you overcome them? Why did you choose your school? What motivates you? How do you believe you can contribute to our growth? Where do you see yourself in the next five years? Can you tell us why you think you're the best fit for this role? Do you have any questions for us?
Experience and Background The interviewer may ask questions about your background and experience to understand your responsibilities in previous roles and how you handled them. They also ask these questions to envision you in the role and determine whether you fit their company culture. Below are examples of these questions: Tell us something about your field of study. Which academic accomplishment are you most proud of? Do you have prior experience in this role? Do you have any academic goals you hope to achieve before you graduate? What are they? What skills and experience do you hope to gain in this job? Do you have plans to further your education? Do you participate in any extracurricular activities? What are they? What do you wish you knew before choosing this career path? What steps have you taken for your professional growth and development? Do you think your education helped to prepare you for this role? In what way?
In-depth Questions Interviewers ask in-depth questions to get detailed information about your behaviour or abilities. These questions usually relate directly to the role and give the interviewer an idea of how well you'd perform. Examples of in-depth questions include: Can you give an example of a time you applied your leadership skills at work? How do you work under pressure? How do you handle stress? Do you prefer working alone or with a team? Why? Tell us about a time you exceeded your expectations. Have you ever missed a deadline? Why and what was the result? Describe how you organise your schedule and prioritise your tasks. Have you ever managed multiple tasks simultaneously? How did you handle them? How do you manage two projects that are due at the same time? How do you intend to make an impact in this role?
Discussion Questions (Tests) (1) What images spring to mind when you hear the word ‘test’? (2) Do you get nervous when you take tests? (3) Are there any kinds of tests that you love? (4) Do you follow any special routines before you take a test? (5) What test has made you most nervous? (6) What do you think about while you wait for the result of a test? (7) Have you ever cheated on a test? (8) Have you ever taken an IQ test? (9) Do you think testing is useful or a waste of time? (10) Do you think your test scores reflect your true ability and intelligence? (11) Do you like taking tests? (12) Are you good at taking tests? (13) What was the last English test that you took like? (14) Have you ever had a blood test? (15) Would you be more nervous before your driving test, a blood test or an English test? (16) What’s the best way to prepare for a test? (17) What medical tests have you had? (18) What was the worst test you ever took? (19) Are there too many tests in school? (20) How do you feel when you fail a test?